As the principal observes all, I am acutely aware that every action I take is under divine scrutiny. The anticipation of becoming a bride and ascending to the throne of France fills me with a sense of purpose and duty. No longer will I be relegated to the role of an attendant; instead, I will embrace my rightful position as the descendant of Catherine of Aragon, hailing from the esteemed lineage of King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castile.
My conscience guides me as I prepare to fulfill the expectations placed upon me. I am determined to lead the king back to the Catholic Church, knowing that Heaven will favor such endeavors. Anne Boleyn, with her sorcery, has ensnared my father in the web of Protestant heresy, a fate I cannot bear to contemplate for him, despite his own transgressions.
My father's actions, particularly his betrayal of my mother's marriage and his union with Anne Boleyn, weigh heavily on my heart. The dispensation from the Pope that sanctioned his marriage to my mother, Catherine of Aragon, underscores the gravity of his betrayal and the heretical path he has chosen.
In contrast, I pride myself on embodying virtue and godliness. I have preserved my purity, a testament to the teachings instilled in me by my mother. She imparted upon me the knowledge and fortitude to face the challenges of womanhood, including the arduous journey of childbirth, which exemplifies the resilience and strength inherent in the female experience.
The ability to conceive and bear life is a power beyond measure, one that transcends the mere act of providing an heir. It is a testament to the inherent strength and endurance of womankind, a truth I hold dear as I prepare to assume my rightful place as a queen.
I have often envisioned myself as a bride, even as the queen of France, allowing my ambitions to cloud my true purpose. Yet, deep down, I know that the king expects me to remain a dutiful daughter, fulfilling every task he sets before me to prove my loyalty and worth. As I sit alone in my chambers, I contemplate my mother's marriage and my father's vanity, recognizing that his pride may lead to his downfall, a fate I cannot bear to witness.
Despite yearning for the love and honor that comes with being a wife and mother, I remind myself of my mission to be a bride of Christ. Riches hold no value without power, and as I await God's guidance and permission to become the bride of France, I prepare myself for a period of fasting and prayer to demonstrate my worthiness.
When I enter the Chapel Royal, I encounter my brother, Henry Fitzroy, who greets me with enthusiasm about the news of a potential marriage alliance with France. While his excitement is palpable, I maintain a sense of modesty and virtue, refusing to be swayed by his arrogance. Though he embodies wealth and status as the Duke of Richmond and Somerset, I remain steadfast in my commitment to humility and piety.
As Henry departs, leaving me to reflect on our conversation, I am mindful of the hidden eyes and ears within the chapel, reminding me of the impossibility of concealing secrets within God's house. With a heavy heart, I leave to seek forgiveness through prayer, reaffirming my dedication to my mission and my faith.
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𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓼 𝓞𝓯 𝓘𝓷𝓷𝓸𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮
Historical FictionThis narrative revolves around Queen Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII of England, whose reign was shrouded in intrigue and speculation. Some portrayed her as a sorceress who enchanted the king, leading him to break from his marriage to Cat...